In November of 2020, Ballot Measure 110, known as the Drug Treatment Recovery Act, was passed by the voters in Oregon. The measure decriminalizes possession of certain amounts of certain illicit drugs, and offers the opportunity for individuals to either pay a $100 fine, or, to complete a substance use disorder (SUD) screening. The screening is designed to connect individuals to resources, and treatment, if they choose.   

Additionally, through the measure, Behavioral Health Resource Networks (BHRNs) are established, through which, a network of specific services must be provided in every county. These services, listed below, are not required to be provided by the county, but must be available within county lines in all 36 counties, including: 

  • Low-barrier substance use disorder treatment;
  • Addiction peer support and recovery services;
  • Transitional, supportive, and permanent housing for persons with substance use disorders, or persons with history of substance use; and
  • Harm reduction interventions.

Local governments and nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for grant funding through the Oversight and Accountability Council organized by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to ensure community access to treatment and recovery services. The council has $270 million to distribute to BHRNs. Per statutory requirements, BHRNs must be active by January of 2022. To meet this goal, the Oversight and Accountability Council has set timelines for the grant process, as well as award distributions. Community mental health programs are encouraged to apply for grant funding and to be providers within the behavioral health regional networks. 

The timeline for the Request For Grant Proposal (RFGP) process is as follows: 

  • Grant Application posted: October 25-29, 2021 (to be reviewed as they are submitted)
  • All grant applications must be submitted by: November 29-December 3, 2021
  • Grant awards will be determined January 3-7, 2021

OHA is expected to host a webinar in the coming weeks providing assistance with grant applications.

Contributed by: Lizzy Atwood Wills | Legislative Affairs Manager